Sample Analyses Clause Samples

Sample Analyses. Analyses are required for only those analytes that are a component of the participant’s routine analytical workload or compliance requirements (i.e., a complete analysis of the sample may not be required). Laboratories must report results for a targeted analyte if the determination is typically given by the analytical methodology utilized. For example, if Pu-238 and Pu-239 are targeted analytes, and results for Pu-239 are reported utilizing alpha spectrometry, the results for Pu-238 must also be reported. The same analytical procedures employed for routine analyses should also be utilized for MAPEP standards. MAPEP, however, may also be used to develop new analytical methods or demonstrate proof of process. Participants are typically allowed 60 calendar days to complete those analyses not controlled by regulatory holding times. The deadline for reporting results is specified for each sample distribution. Although analytical methods are not prescribed by MAPEP, standard analytical procedures will be utilized to independently characterize and verify the MAPEP standards. These analytical techniques include alpha spectrometry, beta counting, gamma spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma (ICP) atomic emission spectroscopy, ICP mass spectrometry, gas chromatography, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, and other common analytical methods. Activities for radiological analytes are typically sufficient to provide a 5-10% counting uncertainty with a reasonable sample size and count time. Similar uncertainties should be achievable for most stable inorganic analytes. The amount of sample is, however, limited. Therefore, the activity and concentration ranges indicated in the sample description must be used to select the optimum quantity of sample for each analysis.